Why the Ken Waldie Tournament?
This year marks the 10th anniversary of September 11, 2011 and the 11th annual Kenneth E Waldie Memorial Tipoff Basketball Tournament. While we all have vivid memories of that horrible day, the members of our basketball league were further shocked when we learned that we lost one of our most beloved members, Kenny. To those who knew Kenny, he was a hero, not because he was killed in the 9/11 tragedy, but because of the way he lived. He was a great and devoted father, friend and role model who encouraged us to live better and do our best. He was an inspiration who exemplified giving and setting an example to our youth as well as the adults who knew him. He was a board member, coach, referee, parent and fan of all kids- a true leader of our organization
My lasting impressions of Ken include two stories that I would like to share. The first was when we were organizing a tournament and my task was to schedule referees. When he noticed that I was tormenting over filling the empty slots, he instructed me to not schedule him yet. “At the end just fill my name into every opening and I’ll be glad to cover those games.”
The second lasting memory was that every time Kenny spoke with the other board members he would be sure to thank us for “all that we do for the kids”. He would remind us that we are making a difference in the lives of the younger generation. We would always feel great as a result of what Ken just said, realizing that he too was a volunteer who set the example by working as hard as anyone else. I had what was to be my final conversation with Ken on the night of September 10th when we spoke on the phone and like he always did, started and ended the conversation by complimenting me for all that I do and on what great children I had. He emailed me later that night and referred to a basketball game that he refereed the previous day in which my daughter played and he commented on what a fine young lady she was turning out to be. I saved that email. This was typical Ken.
We would like to make this a special year by filling all brackets in our tournament and ask that you consider entering your team.
Please refer to the attached flyer and registration form for additional information.
Steve Saba
President,
Methuen Youth Basketball